The pair's spokesperson David Wilson said in a statement: "They are obviously overjoyed and relieved at a safe birth. Scarlett was born at 37 weeks and is perfectly healthy and the family are getting to know one another.

"It is tremendous news for them. They have been trying for five years to have a baby - since they got together. They had more than two years of treatment to see if they could, but that has not been possible. They will be forever indebted to the surrogate."

The surrogate mother has expressed a wish to remain anonymous.

Brooks is currently on police bail following her arrest in July on suspicion of phone hacking and corruption. She has not been charged with any offences.